Epic Games recently announced a significant change for Fortnite players: the OG Ranked Zero Build servers are set to close beginning on March 4 due to concerns over “matchmaking health.” This news comes amid the buzz generated by the launch of Chapter 6 Season 2 on February 21, which introduced new locations and a revised loot system in the main battle royale mode. While the game is thriving overall, it seems some of the smaller modes like OG Ranked Zero Build might not be faring as well.
Since its debut on January 31, Fortnite OG Season 2 has captured the interest of many gamers. For those who have been with Fortnite for the long haul, it offered a delightful trip down memory lane with the return of classic weapons like the Zapotron. Meanwhile, newcomers have enjoyed the chance to experience early-game maps and see why longtime players remember them fondly.
In a Twitter post, Epic Games explained that the rationale behind the server shutdown is linked to “matchmaking health.” However, they assured players that the EU and NAC servers will remain operational until March 25, the end of Fortnite OG Season 2. Players from other regions can switch to these servers without any penalties, allowing them to continue their progress. Nevertheless, the announcement left some fans disappointed that this game mode is wrapping up.
As word of the shutdown spread, it sparked discussions within the community about the broader state of Fortnite OG. Some players deciphered “matchmaking health” as an indication that the mode didn’t capture a large enough audience despite a strong start, boasting over a million concurrent players just hours after launch. The OG Ranked Zero Build, being a niche part of the game, likely struggled to maintain that momentum.
Despite this setback, many players have appreciated how Epic Games reintegrated the classic experience, even reopening the OG Item Shop where items like the Renegade Raider were back for purchase after years. The mode’s shorter seasons and battle passes with reimagined skins have been celebrated by a significant portion of the community. While the specific mode of OG Ranked Zero Build may be closing, supporters are optimistic about the continued potential for Fortnite OG in the future.
